If you die without a will in Minnesota, your property is divided ing to the state's intestate laws. Generally, your spouse receives the largest portion or even the entire estate if there are no descendants. If there are descendants, the estate is split among the spouse and children in a manner defined by law.
Heirs may not take your personal property until 30 days after your death. If your personal property exceeds $75,000 or you own real estate in your name alone, your estate must be probated.
In Minnesota, you can make a living trust to avoid probate for virtually any asset you own—real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and so on. You need to create a trust document (similar to a will), naming someone to take over as trustee after your death (called a "successor trustee").
In the absence of a will, the probate court in Minnesota appoints an administrator, often a close family member, to manage and distribute the deceased's estate. This individual is responsible for various tasks, including asset inventory, debt payment, and asset distribution ing to state laws.
Transfer on Death Deed. For real estate, a transfer on death deed (TODD) that is filed with the county while the owner is alive acts to change ownership of property once they pass without going through probate.
The personal representative is personally responsible for probating the estate completely and correctly ing to Minnesota law. Most estates are expected to be completed within an 18 month period. If more time is needed, the personal representative must petition the court for an extension.